Comparative thermographic analysis at pre- and postcryolipolysis treatment: Clinical case report

Introduction Although the exact cryolipolysis mechanisms on adipose tissue remain unknown, the current literature indicates that it may occur a crystallization followed by an ischemic reaction which generates an inflammatory process. Objective To evaluate thermographically, the tissue's circulatory pattern of a patient submitted to the cryolipolysis technique and the beginning of the inflammatory process, through variations of temperature gradients and the evaluation of the pains degree of the patient in these same moments. Methods A descriptive study, of an interventional case report, performed in an 18-year-old patient who had clearly visible fat in the lower abdomen area, with a skin fold greater than 2 centimeters and body mass index <= 30 kg/m(2). Results Comparing the maximum temperatures showed on the last thermography with the pre-application image, an increase of 0.4 degrees C was observed, which is suggestive of abnormality. Regarding the minimum temperatures verified, there was a significative decrease in the temperature with the procedure, which was observed on the last 5 minutes (Delta T = 9.8 degrees C). However, in 48 hour, the minimum temperature began to recover (Delta T = 0.3 degrees C). Conclusion The observed data indicate that there was a significant decrease in the temperature during the cooling phase, whereas in the recovery phase, the inverse was found.